Hundreds of people gathered at Reno City Hall for the swearing in ceremony of the new mayor and city council members on Nov. 13.
The City of Reno swore in Zelalem “Zee” Bogale as the first black Reno city attorney. He ran unopposed in the general election. Bogale is an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and has been practicing law for over 15 years.
During his acceptance speech, he said, “I am truly blessed to be able to lead the Reno city attorney’s office during a time of tremendous positive change in the city and the state of Nevada.”
Following Bogale was Eddie Gomez, joining the council in Ward 4 as the youngest member at 25 years old and the second Latino member.
This comes after a close race between Gomez and Meghan Ebert, with a 200-vote difference. As a small business owner, Gomez plans to streamline the process for obtaining permits.
Alexis Hill, a Washoe County Commissioner, previously endorsed Gomez until two protection-orders filed against him were brought forward in October. He’s been accused of stalking and threatening behavior.
Matt Johnson is succeeding Naomi Duerr in Ward 2. Johnson moved to Reno as a child and is a UNR alumnus.
He says he prides himself on three ‘E’s: ethics, environment and economics. Johnson campaigned for more transparency and improved accountability. He hopes to continue Duerr’s legacy by growing the urban tree canopy.
“We have huge shoes to fill here, and I just can’t thank you enough, Naomi. I look forward to building on your legacy,” Johnson said.
Angela Gianoli, a new municipal judge, campaigned on smart treatment-focused alternatives to incarceration to help lower the chance of repeat offenders.
Mayor-elect Kate Marshall was the final one to be sworn in. Her policies include improving budget management, tackling the housing crisis and creating a proactive emergency response. Noticeably missing from the ceremony was her opponent councilwoman Kathleen Taylor.
“I look forward to working with this council and working with the people of Reno,” Marshall said. “This is the biggest little city, and I hope to be the biggest little mayor.”
After taking their oaths, former Mayor Hilary Schieve invited the new city officials to join the rest of the council on stage.
“As we close, I just want to thank each and every one of you. All of you have given back to this city in ways, and to me in a way that I can never ever repay you or have the words for,” Schieve said.
The ceremony concluded with Marshall motioning to close out the meeting.
